In the previous post, you must have read about 10 do’s of project management. But there are certain practices which need to be avoided to ensure there are no pitfalls in your project management practices.
#1 Don’t start executing till you have a clearly defined plan
Many people have this thinking that they can save a lot of time by missing out the planning part. But working on a project without planning can lead to increased chances of failure. Thus, don’t begin to work on a project till you have a clearly defined plan with you.
#2 Don’t ignore the worst-case scenario
It takes a good plan and a lot of efforts to make a project successful. Even though if you have a good plan for your project, you need to keep room for risk and uncertainties. That’s why a contingency plan is highly important to ensure you are well-prepared for the worst case scenario.
#3 Don’t treat your team members as robots
Remember that your team members are human beings who have needs, desires, fears, insecurities, and are always looking for attention and respect. If you want to build a highly motivated team then you will have to stop treating them as robots. Make sure you pay enough attention to your team members demands, focus on their growth, and interact with them on a human level.
#4 Don’t underestimate the importance of a good project management software
Most managers feel that they can handle all the project management work manually. But mind you managing teams and projects can be a messy work. Moreover, in a fast-paced business world, it is tricky to keep track of every little thing involved in a project. A good project management tool can help you keep updated about everything on the go. It comes with a lot of powerful features like Gantt chart tool, proofing, discussions etc making your entire work easier.
#5 Don’t communicate with your clients through emails
Project managers often use emails to communicate with their clients rather than speaking to them in person. Emails are good for conveying short and simple messages. But when it comes to discussing important issues like project strategies, deadlines etc. Emails can easily lead to misinterpretation of information and lead to chaos. A better idea is to communicate in person with your clients so that everything is communicated with clarity.
#6 Don’t ignore the important tasks
It is true that a project manager faces a lot of challenges when it comes managing projects, people, and remote teams. In such a competitive environment, it is obvious for a manager to forget the important tasks in lieu of completing the important ones. But remember that your job is to manage projects and not to manage the crisis. Don’t ignore the tasks which are important just because an urgent task has popped up.
#7 Don’t forget to ask for feedback
It is true that asking for a feedback can be awkward at times. But without the feedback, you cannot identify the areas of improvement required in your project. Also, without a feedback, you will never be able to learn a new skill, technique etc.
Good project management comes through years of experience, knowledge and consistent hard work. However, using technological tools like project management software which gives you access to powerful features like online Gantt chart, reporting software etc can make your work easier and quicker. If you know about any project management hacks, then feel free to share them in the comments below.
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